Island-Inspired Jamaican Pork Chop

Name: Island-Inspired Jamaican Pork Chop
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 pork chops, bone-in; 2 tablespoons allspice; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup pineapple juice; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh pineapple slices; Chopped parsley for garnish; Rice and peas

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love making Island-Inspired Jamaican Pork Chops for a taste of the tropics in my kitchen. The combination of spices and flavors transports me straight to a sunny beach, and the aroma fills my home with warmth and comfort. With each bite, you savor the succulent pork harmonized by island spices and the sweetness of pineapple. It's the perfect dish for any occasion, and I often serve it with a side of rice and peas for a complete meal that never fails to impress my family and friends.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:55:29.728Z

I experimented with different spice blends to create the perfect seasoning for my pork chops, and I was thrilled with the result. The combination of allspice, thyme, and a hint of cinnamon brought the dish to life, making it taste like a slice of Jamaica right here at home.

The secret to tender and juicy pork chops is marinating them for at least an hour. I often prepare the marinade in the morning and let the pork soak up all the wonderful flavors throughout the day before cooking, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A vibrant blend of spices that tantalizes your taste buds
Juicy pork chops with a delightful tropical flair
Perfect for grilling or searing, versatile for any occasion

      

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the pork chops is a crucial step in this recipe. The blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and spices not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps to tenderize it. Ideally, you should marinate the pork for at least 1 hour, but letting it soak overnight will unlock even more intense flavors. The acid in the pineapple juice breaks down muscle fibers, resulting in juicy, succulent chops that are bursting with tropical taste.

As you marinate, make sure to turn the pork chops occasionally to ensure they are evenly coated. This will prevent any uneven flavor distribution when cooking. Additionally, if you're short on time, you can use a resealable plastic bag for marinating; this allows the marinade to coat the meat surfaces fully and effectively.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Chops

Whether you're using a grill or a skillet, achieving the perfect cooking temperature is key. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat; this helps achieve a nice sear without overcooking the inside. For grills, aim for a grill surface temperature of 400-450°F (204-232°C). Cook the pork chops for about 6-7 minutes per side, and check the internal temperature—should reach 145°F (63°C) for safety. A meat thermometer is an invaluable tool here to avoid undercooking or drying out the chops.

If you notice that the chops are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly. It’s better to cook them a bit longer at a lower temperature than to risk burning. If using a skillet, you can also add a splash of the marinade towards the end of cooking to enhance flavor and moisture. Just be sure to let it reduce slightly to avoid a watery finish.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

4 pork chops, bone-in
2 tablespoons allspice
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil

For Serving

Fresh pineapple slices
Chopped parsley for garnish
Rice and peas

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix the allspice, thyme, cinnamon, garlic powder, salt, pepper, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and olive oil to create a marinade.

Marinate the Pork Chops

Add the pork chops to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.

Cook the Pork Chops

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook the chops for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serve

Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices and chopped parsley. Enjoy with rice and peas!

Feel free to double the marinade for more flavor, especially if you're cooking extra pork chops!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chopped Scotch bonnet pepper to your marinade to give the dish an authentic Jamaican heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your pork chops with sides like rice and peas not only complements the dish’s tropical flair but also adds a satisfying textural contrast. The creaminess of the coconut milk in the rice and peas enhances the richness of the pork, making each bite delightful. You can add a squeeze of lime over the rice for an extra zing that elevates the meal even further.

Fresh pineapple slices are not just for garnish; they can also serve as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the spiced pork. This balance of flavors helps to highlight the sweetness in the meat while offering a bright, juicy contrast that enhances your dining experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, marinating the pork chops earlier in the day or even the night before is ideal. After marination, you can store the chops in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Leftover pork can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chops before cooking; they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Reheating the pork can be tricky to avoid drying it out. To reheat, place the chops in a covered skillet over low heat or in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Consider adding a splash of water or leftover marinade to keep the meat moist during the reheating process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless pork chops instead?

Yes, boneless pork chops work fine; just reduce the cooking time slightly.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Incorporate Scotch bonnet pepper or cayenne pepper into the marinade for heat.

→ What's the best way to ensure the pork stays juicy?

Marinating the pork for at least an hour helps retain moisture during cooking.

→ Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the marinated chops at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.